Description
An evergreen tree that grows to a height of 10 m, best grown in temperate regions of Australia. An attractive tree with dense foliage, shiny, green, rounded leaves and the new growth is bronze coloured. They are often used as street trees and are good in an orchard situation. They are a tough drought-tolerant shade tree that also makes an ideal windbreak in our dry climate.
The pods can be eaten fresh or roasted and ground into powder. One of the world’s best natural sweeteners, the leathery pods are commonly used as a substitute for cocoa and have been cultivated throughout the Mediterranean as a staple food source for thousands of years. They are also a useful fodder feed.
The emerging pod is pale green and turns a dark brown when mature. It is a flattened pod, 13 – 30 cm in length and about 2.5 cm wide, containing a sweet, chocolate tasting pulp and several bean-like seeds. The sugar content of the pods can be as high as 50%. A healthy alternative for caffeine and chocolate addicts, they are high in antioxidants and vitamin E and help to improve digestive health and lower cholesterol.
Seed Preparation
Scarification:
- Nick the hard coat with a file or soak in hot water (80°C) for 24 hours.
Germination
When to Sow:
- Spring (September–November) or autumn (March–May) in frostfree zones.
Method:
- Use seed raising mix in pots/trays.
- Plant seeds 1 cm deep.
- Keep moist (not soggy) at 20–25°C.
- Germination occurs in 2–6 weeks.
Seedling Care
Transplanting:
- When seedlings have 4–6 true leaves.
- Harden off outdoors for 7–10 days.
Potting Up:
- Use well draining soil in 10–15 cm pots.
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Soil:
- Well draining, sandy loam
- pH 6.0–8.0. Add lime if acidic.
Spacing:
- 10–15 m apart (mature trees reach 10–15 m height/width).
Wind Protection:
- Use windbreaks in exposed areas.
Planting Out
Timing:
- Late spring or early summer.
Steps:
- Dig a hole twice the root ball size.
- Mix soil with compost.
- Plant at same depth as pot. Water thoroughly.
- Mulch (keep away from trunk).
Watering
Young Trees:
- Water weekly (deeply).
- Reduce frequency after 1–2 years.
Mature Trees:
- Drought tolerant; water only in extended dry periods.
Fertilising
Young Trees:
- Apply balanced fertiliser in spring.
- Avoid high nitrogen (legumes fix their own).
Mature Trees:
Minimal needs; compost annually.
Pruning
Early Years:
- Shape for strong structure.
- Remove crossing/rubbing branches.
Mature Trees:
- Annual pruning to remove dead wood and maintain airflow.
Pests and Diseases
Pests:
- Scale, mealybugs, aphids—treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Diseases:
- Root rot (avoid overwatering).
- Ensure good drainage.
Harvesting
Timing:
- 5–7 years for pods.
- Harvest ripe pods (dark brown, dry) in late summer.
Uses:
Raw snacks, flour, livestock feed, or chocolate substitute.
Special Considerations
Dioecious Nature:
- Plant 5+ seeds to ensure male/female trees (or graft a hermaphrodite scion).
Troubleshooting
Poor Germination:
Yellow Leaves:
- Overwatering or nutrient deficiency.
Snake Bean Red Dragon 
I have not planted this yet.